A HEARTBROKEN family have spoken out about their grief after a cancer diagnosis changed their lives.

Sue Pickering, from Blackburn, was diagnosed with stage four cancer last month at the age of 46.

The mother-of-one began feeling ill at the end of February but it wasn't until July when a mass was found on her pancreas that the cancer, which has spread to her liver, was discovered. 

However, Ms Pickering, who is due to start chemotherapy in two weeks’ time, isn’t ready to give up - with friends and family doing all they can to ensure she gets the treatment she needs to give her the best chance at life.

A florist for more than 30 years, Ms Pickering is heavily involved in the local community, holding events and fundraisers for Blackburn-based Fenny Reccers.

Describing her aunt as ‘the most wonderful person’ Emmanuelle Pickering said: “Sue has, apart from two years she spent working for the NHS as a healthcare assistant, been a florist for 30 years.

“In both these times she has been there for thousands of people both in some of their happiest moments and in their darkest times.

“Her love for flowers and love for people means that she pours her heart into bringing beauty to joyous events such as weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. Even more, she has been there for many people in their saddest moments, people who have lost parents, partners and even children.

“For all the good she has brought into our world, we want to do everything we can to help her continue to be the wonderful, positive person she is and if raising this money can help her live a longer and fuller life, no one deserves it more than her.”

Miss Pickering went on to say that her aunt is a huge part of the community in Blackburn, dedicating over 10 years of her life to fundraising and helping young boys and girls have a fun and safe environment to play football among other activities at Fenny Reccers.

She was involved in all the fundraisers such as bonfire nights and summer fairs or even just helping get the pitches ready for games.

A fundraising page has now been set up to ensure Ms Pickering can be flown overseas for life-prolonging treatment, with a goal of £100,000.

Emmanuelle said: “She is due to start chemotherapy in 2 weeks’ time, which is still a while to wait considering the diagnoses.

“The money we raise will be used to fly her abroad to either America, Austria, or Germany for treatment that isn’t available on the NHS. They have much more advanced technology and procedures in other countries, And we really feel it would benefit her and give her a fighting chance.

“If we don’t managed to hit the target and get to where we need to be, or the treatment isn’t successful then the money will be given to Sue, her partner and her 17 year old son to create memories with, some will be put aside for her son when he turns 18 and some will be donated to a cancer charity of her choice,” Miss Pickering added.

To find out more visit gofundme.com and search for ‘Support Our Sue’ or by clicking here.